The North Colonie Central School District extends its condolences to the family and friends of the Roman family, whose home was involved in a devastating fire on Feb. 9. 10-year-old Nathan Roman died, a student at Forts Ferry Elementary, as well as his parents, Israel and Deborah. Nathan’s older brother Noah is a sophomore at Shaker High School and was not home at the time. For the past two days, a number of school counselors and psychologists at Forts Ferry and Shaker High School have met with students to help them understand and cope with their feelings and thoughts. The Community Hospice Grief Center of Albany County has also been working closely with the district, and will continue to after the winter break.

“We are profoundly saddened by this terrible loss,” said Superintendent Joseph Corr. “Our thoughts go out to Noah, his family, and friends. During these difficult times, we as a district community will pull together to support Noah and each other.”

Many people in the school community have reached out to the district wanting to provide support for Noah Roman. Listed below are some ways people can help:

Trustco Bank Fund

A community member has set up a fund for Noah Roman titled “Noah Roman Non Profitable Charity.” Anyone that wishes to make a donation can do so over the phone or in person at any Trustco Bank in the Capital Region.

Bowling for Noah

The family of Ben Stowell, a former North Colonie student who died from cancer in 2009 has held a fundraiser titled, “Bowling for Ben, Ben’s Green Drakkoman Hero Fund Fundraiser.” The proceeds usually go to the childhood cancer charity, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, to help fund a grant being sponsored by the Stowell family. This year, because Noah Roman was one of Ben Stowell’s best friends, the Stowell family would like to donate all proceeds from the bowling event to Noah. It will be held Sunday, Feb. 14, from 2:00-4:30 p.m. at Spare Time in Latham.

Community Forum

There will be a school community forum on Thursday, Feb. 18 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Goodrich Building, 91 Fiddlers Lane in Latham, to provide guidance and support to members of our community as we face and come to terms with our community’s loss. Anyone is welcome.